Wiring an Ignition Switch Wiring an Ignition Switch

What You'll Need

Electrical Tape

Wrench

Small Screwdriver

What You'll Need

Electrical Tape

Wrench

Small Screwdriver

Automobiles are known for breaking down, and the ignition switch is no different. So knowing how to replace or rewire one is one way on how to save money on auto maintenance. Here is a guide on how wire or rewire it yourself. Remember to follow all safety precautions and do not do this if you do not feel that you can handle it.

Safety

If you have not worked with electrical wiring or automobiles before, you should consider have a professional or a knowledgeable friend to help you.

Step 1 - Turn Off Engine

Make sure that you turn off the engine and ignition switch before you start. This will prevent any potential injuries that you may face during this repair.

Step 2 - Disconnect Battery

Remove the battery from the automobile and set it aside in a safe place. Remember where you put it so that you can have easy access to it when you need to put it back into the car.

Step 3 - Remove Steering Wheel & Columns

Remove the lower and upper steering wheel columns. Then remove horn cover from the center of the steering wheel. Begin to disconnect the horn and remove it. Place it and all of the connectors (for an example screws). Then disconnect the washer and nut that holds the steering wheel in place. Then you can push it up and pull it out gently. Mark the spine in the steering area, so that you can realign it correctly when you put it back in.

Step 4 - Remove Turn Signal & Windshield Wiper Switches

Do the same to these as you did with the horn. Which is to disconnect them and set them aside in a safe place. The slide the space off the dashboard as you did with the steering columns.

Step 5 - Disconnect Ignition

Remove all mounting screws off the ignition and place key in it so that you can turn it "On" to locked position. While it is "On", check the wiring and undo it. Then remove or loosen the cylinder.

Step 6 - Rewire

If you are replacing the ignition, take out the cylinder in the old ignition and place it in the new one. If you are just going to rewire your current one, keep the cylinder in it. Try to connect the wires to the proper location and once you are done with that, you can then remount it on the dashboard. If needed, use electrical tape to hold the wires to the ignition. Make sure that you have connect all wires and try to take note on where you connect them this time around. That way you can make quick repairs if needed.

Step 7 - Close Up

Put the steering wheel, slider, switches and steering wheel columns back on the dashboard. Then test the ignition by placing the battery back in and turning on the ignition. If it starts up correctly, then you are done. If not, go back and try to figure out what you did wrong. Refer to owner's manual if needed or have a professional take a look at it if you are not sure what you did wrong.